Health Care and Beauty Bloghttp://blog.beauty-tips.net
Blog About Health, Beauty and FashionThu, 17 Oct 2013 22:45:59 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.7.11Fresh Nail Trends You Can Do Yourself at Homehttp://blog.beauty-tips.net/fresh-nail-trends-you-can-do-yourself-at-home
http://blog.beauty-tips.net/fresh-nail-trends-you-can-do-yourself-at-home#respondTue, 21 May 2013 08:39:28 +0000http://blog.beauty-tips.net/?p=825Continue reading →]]>Nail trends come and go as with every other element of fashion, and it can be a hassle going to the salon just to stay up on the latest trends. But what’s nice is that you can avoid this hassle and save some money in the process by doing the latest nail trends at home. From neutrals to neons, here are all the ways you can play up your nails this summer – and for every summer to come!

Nice and Neutral

In other words: this is how to look classy, chic, and sport a simple trend that is both timeless and easy to achieve. Keep your nails at a comfortable length – but not too long – to keep the elegance and class still intact. Be sure to use an emery board to file each nail into a flattering shape; a nice tip for finding a flattering shape is to follow the shape of your cuticle. With a neutral nail polish of choice, paint your nails and finish up by using a clear top coat to make the finished look last.

Choose buttery shades of beige, gray, white, and pale pink to make a neutral statement. The most important thing to remember when wearing a neutral nail color is to keep the colors fresh and well-groomed; this means no chips or scuffs!

Creating Caviar Manicures

Take neutral nails up a notch with a caviar manicure. Caviar nails are perfect for a girls’ night out, special events, or just because you’re feeling fabulous. Caviar manicures don’t have to be made with neutral colors; any color will do as long as you’re using clear micro beads. To create the sophisticated caviar manicure trend at home you’ll need the following:

Base coat

Opaque or matte nail polish

Clear micro beads (find them at craft stores)

Top coat

A tray or a piece of paper

Use our guide for maintaining healthy nails to prep your nails perfectly before beginning the caviar manicure – or any other manicure for that matter!

The first step is to apply the base coat to clean nails and allow it to dry. Next, you will apply one coat of the non-shimmer nail polish and allow it to dry.

The second step is to apply another coat of the nail polish to one hand and wait until the polish is tacky (about 10-15 seconds). Holding your hand with the semi-dry nails over the tray, bowl, or piece of paper, pour the clear micro beads over your nails making sure to cover each nail entirely with the beads.

Once they are covered with “caviar,” use your fingers to gently press the beads to make sure they stay in place.

Repeat the process on your other hand and with the fallout of beads on your tray, you can pour them back into their container until you’re ready to use them again! This manicure will last up to 4 days before the beads start to depart from your nail bed.

Nail Stickers that Save Money

Getting straight and tidy lines on your nails can be really troublesome if you’re not using the right tools for the job. So here is the solution for those wondering how to get the perfect striped manicure from home or wanting to create cute geometric shapes on nails without buying expensive stencils or paying to get them done. When reading the following list of tools, keep in mind that scotch tape isn’t just for holding up posters on your wall:

Scissors

Scotch tape

Nail polish

A good reason to keep scotch tape tucked away with your nail polish is so that you can create cute triangles, zig-zags, and stripes on your nails without all of the shaky hands and messy lines!

Roll out an inch of scotch tape and paint it with your nail polish. Take a shower, do your hair, apply makeup or eat a sandwich – just be sure to let the polish dry before moving on to the next step!

Paint your nails with a different color than you painted the tape, then cut the tape into shapes or strips. Next, create personal and unique designs with your homemade nail stickers by applying them to your nail with the sticky side down. Apply a topcoat to finish the look and make the manicure last!

Color Splash Nail Manicure

Color splashed nails are a hot trend for summer, and it’s a great look to wear to the beach, pool, pond, or walking around the mall. It is really easy and can be done with any combination of colors you have available – assuming they all complement one another. If you want colorful nails that give you instant style you’ll need the following:

White nail polish

3 coordinating nail polishes (teal and coral are a couple of great options!)

3 toothpicks

Tray, bowl, or a piece of paper

1. File your nails and clean up your cuticles before painting the nails white. Using a good, quality white nail polish is crucial because a lot of white polishes don’t dry well and require a few coats. Make sure the white nail polish is dry before moving forward.

2. Choose the first color, open the bottle, and use the brush to dab the color onto a tray, piece of paper, or in a bowl. Use your toothpick to pick up some color, then place the colored tip of the toothpick at the upper corner of your finger nail and drag the color to the opposite lower corner of your nail; you’ll probably run out of color before reaching the other corner which is completely fine!

3. Apply as much color as you desire to each nail and let it dry before using your second color – repeating the same process, only using a clean toothpick to apply the new color. Let the nail polish dry before doing the same thing with your last nail color. After your nails have dried, apply a top coat to make sure your style lasts!

The Gradient Stained

This DIY manicure has been popping up everywhere! It’s another great manicure to wear at the beach, pool, parties or day trips to the mall, and it only takes a small part of your day to complete.

Ombre and gradient styles are everywhere from hair to clothing so why not stain your nails too! Here are all of the ingredients for this manicure:

It may take a few times of doing this technique to get the hang of things, but it’s honestly super easy! Instead of simply using nail polish to paint your nails, you’ll be staining them.

1. The first step is to remove the caps of all 3 nail polishes.

2. Soak the triangle makeup sponge in the water for a couple of seconds and squeeze the water out so that it is only damp. Having a damp sponge will keep the polish from being absorbed heavily into the sponge.

3. Now that your sponge is damp, you’ll need to move slightly fast to keep the nail polish from drying out on the sponge. Begin with the darkest color and draw a line on your sponge near the edge; going over the line twice will be enough for the color to transfer to your nail.

4. The next step is to paint another line with the second shade, continuing to do this with the lightest shade as well.

5. Now you’re ready to dab the sponge onto your nail. It seems intimidating to dab the colors, but fear not! Don’t worry about messing the technique up because dabbing the sponge is what blends the colors together to give it the gradient look. If you’re still unsure, you can dab the sponge on a piece of paper before trying it on your nails. Align the dip of the sponge up with the tip of your finger or toenail. Once the sponge is in place, press the sponge to your nail, and then dab it a few times up and down in the same spot.

You should be able to do 2 nails before needing to reapply the colors to your sponge as long as you’re moving fast. The whole process can get messy, which is why you need the paint brush and fingernail polish remover. Wipe up the mess around your nails and cuticles with the brush before applying a top coat to your nails. Do this manicure in any color you like and mix up the colors if you’re feeling confident.

]]>http://blog.beauty-tips.net/fresh-nail-trends-you-can-do-yourself-at-home/feed0Beauty Gifts for Christmas from Getting Personalhttp://blog.beauty-tips.net/beauty-gifts-for-christmas-from-getting-personal
http://blog.beauty-tips.net/beauty-gifts-for-christmas-from-getting-personal#respondTue, 06 Nov 2012 04:45:50 +0000http://blog.beauty-tips.net/?p=814Continue reading →]]>From luscious fragrances in beautiful bottles peeking out from under to tree, to luxury makeup sets hidden within a stocking, Christmas is all about indulgence and spoiling our loved ones. Beauty gifts at Christmas are one of the most pampering presents we can send or receive. If you are intent in spoiling your loved one this Christmas with a personal and pampering gift then take a look at some of the must haves beauty Christmas gifts from Getting Personal.

Ultimate Beauty and Relaxation – Gift Experience Choice Pack

First on the list of Christmas gifts from Getting Personal is a great pack, with a range of 30 relaxing gift experiences to choose from, this indulging gift will guarantee to produce a few smiles on Christmas Day.

With everything from pampering days out to photo shoots, aroma stone therapy to a full body massage, men’s MOT treatment to a Dove Spa Hydra Cleansing Facial, pedicures to body treatments your loved one will be able to tailor the Ultimate Choice Pack to cater for their own tastes and preferences. This means that the prospect of sending a Christmas present that is politely acknowledged but then placed in a cupboard until it is wrapped up and sent to someone else next Christmas won’t be the case with this unique beauty gift!

This personalising gift costs just £69.99 and provides the perfect solution for washing away those post-Christmas blues.

Pamper Day with Three Treatments for Two

There is nothing quite as pleasurable than knowing that you’ve still got your Christmas present to use when the festive season is over and most Christmas gifts have been exhausted and even forgotten!
This spiriting scenario could be a reality if you put down Getting Personal’s Pampering Day with Three Treatments for Two on your Christmas list.

This luxury beauty gift means those lucky enough to receive this Pamper Day in their stocking will enjoy three treatments with a friend, including a massage and facial both lasting 30 minutes, an express eyebrow shape or a nail treatment. On top of being massaged, pampered and beautified, with a complimentary day pass for a health and fitness club. Lucky Pamper Day guests can then spend some time at the gym sweating out all those post-Christmas toxins and burning off some of that excess indulgence the festive season inevitably causes.

Costing just £124.99 it is not surprising that the Pamper Day with Three Treatments for Two is one of Getting Personal’s bestselling gifts.

Pamper Treat Gift Pack

The Pamper Treat Gift Pack provides the perfect opportunity to help your loved one beat those post-Christmas blues with some serious pampering.

This present means that the recipient will have the chance to enjoy either an express manicure, an express facial or a back, neck and shoulder massage from a qualified therapist.

Besides being massaged and made to look beautiful at a quality beauty salon, the Pamper Gift Pack also enables the recipient and their friend to use all the facilities at the health and fitness club for a whole day.

For just £64.99 you can’t afford not to spoil your loved one this Christmas.

]]>http://blog.beauty-tips.net/beauty-gifts-for-christmas-from-getting-personal/feed0Beauty Monthly Subscriptions Services for Different Countrieshttp://blog.beauty-tips.net/beauty-monthly-subscriptions-services-for-different-countries
http://blog.beauty-tips.net/beauty-monthly-subscriptions-services-for-different-countries#respondTue, 30 Oct 2012 05:47:05 +0000http://blog.beauty-tips.net/?p=809Continue reading →]]>Beauty subscriptions are a great way to test out different beauty products for a small cost each month. Prices vary from service to service, and the products offered are high-end products or those that are customer favorites, regardless of price. Not all subscription services are available to each country, but most nations do have their own service.

Some examples of well known beauty subscription services are as follows:

These are only a sample of how many beauty subscriptions are available for purchase. Here is a little more general information about beauty subscription services.

Risks involved with Beauty Subscription Services

Beauty subscriptions rarely let you pick and choose what products you get after the initial questionnaire that’s taken when signing up. This means you may end up with products you’ll never use, already have, or that you wouldn’t use (i.e. bath salts when you only take showers). Another issue you may run into when using a beauty subscription box is the possibility of receiving products that were damaged on the way to your door step.

Types of Subscriptions

When you’re shopping for beauty subscriptions, you can look for different types of products. The most popular are beauty boxes for women; however, more and more companies are coming out with men boxes, health and fitness boxes, and eco-friendly products. You’ll even be able to find monthly subscription services dedicated to new moms and pets!

What to expect in your Beauty Subscription

Although most beauty subscription services say they offer makeup, skin care and hair care products, the amount of makeup is slim compared to the skin and hair care products you will receive. As plenty of us know, the price of makeup can be sky-high, which is why we often turn to beauty boxes to test out makeup before spending $30 or more on it. Unfortunately, we rarely see any makeup at all with the exception being lip-gloss. What you can look forward to are bonus items like specialty chocolate, snacks, teas, and products for your home such as air fresheners, laundry detergent and other miscellaneous items.

Price of a Beauty Subscription Service

The price per beauty subscription will vary according to the individual company. Most are less than $20 and offer 4-6 quality, deluxe sample sizes of beauty products. Shipping is usually included in the monthly price. If you want to purchase a full-size product, the company’s website usually provides you with some sort of discount or points system to earn free full-size products of your choosing. Here is a list of some of the beauty subscription services available in different countries.

]]>http://blog.beauty-tips.net/beauty-monthly-subscriptions-services-for-different-countries/feed0Licorice : Health Benefits & Precautionshttp://blog.beauty-tips.net/licorice-health-benefits-and-precautions
http://blog.beauty-tips.net/licorice-health-benefits-and-precautions#respondSun, 23 Sep 2012 20:36:47 +0000http://blog.beauty-tips.net/?p=800Continue reading →]]>Contrary to what people think, licorice isn’t just the delicious black candy that comes in the form of chewy ropes or jelly beans. It’s also an important plant that’s used herbally for a number of illnesses. Furthermore, this plant produces blue flowers perennially and adds color to a garden.

Of course, most topics involving licorice come back to how it’s a coveted flavoring ingredient and remedy that’s used widely across both health and food industries. In Asia, licorice is added to numerous herbs such as black pepper, clove, ginger, sage, or turmeric to enhance flavor and healing capabilities. An interesting historic fact is that black licorice and other candy was originally flavored with natural licorice root extract; however, these days it’s more common for the flavor to be from anise oil.

Flavor isn’t the only thing licorice is known for since it’s also a great source of iron. Obviously there’s a lot to cover in the way of licorice benefits, so let’s continue by discussing some of the different ways you can use it in your everyday life.

Sweeter than Sugar

Licorice is sweet! The licorice plant contains a natural ingredient called glycyrrhizin, which is said to be almost 50 times sweeter than sucrose. The even sweeter thing about licorice is its antibacterial and antiviral capabilities. The perks of licorice don’t stop at the antibacterial or antiviral capabilities since it’s also an expectorant, which means it loosens up mucus that can clog airways.

Treats Coughs and Bronchitis

Another use for licorice involves treating coughs and bronchitis. To treat coughs, you need crushed licorice root to boil so that the juice can be extracted. The paste that is left over can be used for a number of things including coughs, laxatives, flu symptoms or infections.

As for treating bronchitis, you can do this with powdered licorice root and raw honey. Mix about 5 grams of powdered licorice root with a few tablespoons of raw honey, then take the licorice/raw honey mix up to three times daily. Aside from helping with bronchitis, this method also works for stubborn coughs, asthma, and for treating lung infections.

Solve Stomach and Digestion Problems with Licorice

Those who practice traditional medicine still use licorice to this day to treat problems associated with the stomach. Certain types of ulcers can be treated with licorice because it’s able to take care of stomach inflammation-causing bacteria, as well as ulcers of the stomach and digestive tract.

Unlike most ulcer medications, licorice stifles stomach acid’s ability to harm the stomach lining, without overdoing things; it does so by stimulating digestive mucosal tissues to help stomach lining avoid becoming damaged by acid. Modern ulcer medications reduce stomach acid to a drastically low amount, which can cause an imbalance of good acids and bacteria, thus making digestion much harder.

Moving along, you can use licorice to help control blood sugar and balance hormones in your body. Licorice root also encourages healthy kidney and bowel functions as well. To use licorice to treat ulcers, inflammation and kidney/bowel functions, steep the licorice root to drink with herbal teas.

Licorice can sooth Skin

Licorice can treat skin conditions! Not very many people know this, but licorice is used in skin creams or paste to help alleviate irritations such as psoriasis. It also helps with other skin afflictions such as sores that are exuding fluid. Licorice powder has even been used to treat cold sores, canker sores, genital herpes and hepatitis; however, it is recommended that you see a physician before trying this method of treatment.

Detoxifying Capabilities

You might also find it fascinating to know that licorice is used to rid toxins from the body, just as a detoxifying agent would. Additionally, licorice is said to be an aid in liver disease, promoting memory functions in the brain, and strengthening nerves throughout the body.

Precautions for Licorice

With all of the previously discussed benefits and uses, it’s no wonder why licorice is heavily used in a number of therapies. However, this isn’t to say that licorice is some kind of perfect miracle product because there are some possible side effects – especially if you’re taking more than 3 grams daily for 4-6 weeks. Some of the possible licorice side effects include fluid retention, potassium loss and high blood pressure.

Taking these problems into account, it’s important to heed the precautions for licorice use. The first is that you should use less than 3 grams of licorice a day – unless instructed by a doctor to do otherwise. In order to counteract possible calcium deficiency, make sure to eat plenty of foods like apricots, bananas, juices and vegetables. One more precaution that we want to mention includes avoiding licorice use if you suffer from high blood pressure or heart, liver, or kidney disease.

Now we don’t mean to scare you with all of these precautions because licorice can be a highly-beneficial product that helps with a number of health problems. So you should definitely try it out if you’re looking to treat coughs, bronchitis, skin problems, and digestive problems.

]]>http://blog.beauty-tips.net/licorice-health-benefits-and-precautions/feed0Seven Safe, Simple Steps for Preventing & Treating Acnehttp://blog.beauty-tips.net/seven-safe-simple-steps-for-preventing-treating-acne
http://blog.beauty-tips.net/seven-safe-simple-steps-for-preventing-treating-acne#respondSat, 25 Aug 2012 01:24:56 +0000http://blog.beauty-tips.net/?p=787Continue reading →]]>What causes acne? If we had a simple answer, then acne would be like the measles – basically a thing of the past! But because acne is influenced by many factors, we don’t have one miracle shot or pill. In most cases, acne is best treated holistically: You need to take your whole mind and body experience into account. What does that mean? Read our tips for a great acne solution!

Following the steps below can add up to a “vaccine” against mild to moderate acne. For those with more serious acne, we have found AcneTreatment.net to be a good resource for the lowdown on everything from herbal supplements to topical skincare regimes and prescription acne medications.

Seven Simple Tips for Preventing Acne

Drink water! Besides keeping your skin hydrated and preventing premature wrinkling, a regular flow of water helps to transport nutrients that build healthy skin cells. Water also helps clear your body of toxins that interfere with clear skin.
If you aren’t a big fan of drinking water, that’s OK. Tea and fruit juice (no corn syrup, please!) are some good substitutes. Just remember that some beverages are loaded with calories, tooth-harming sugars and artificial ingredients. Water is a non-caloric and safe solution. It’s also cheap!

Exercise. Where clear skin is concerned, one benefit of exercise is cleaning your pores from the inside out. Think about it: When sweat streams through your pores, it clears out lots of gunk – kind of like rainwater rushing through a city pipeline.
To help keep your skin clear:

Wash your face and body before you exercise. Apply a moisturizer to your face even though you’ll get sweaty soon. If you don’t moisturize, your skin might overcompensate and make more oils than you like.

Wash your face and body after exercising. For the best results, use a cleanser, an astringent and a moisturizer along with a spot treatment if needed.

Use mineral powder makeup. Most concealers and foundations are advertised as non-comedogenic, which means that they don’t clog pores. Somehow this seems misleading; physically, isn’t it almost impossible for creamy stuff placed on the skin to not sink in? Besides that, some makeup irritates skin because it contains low-quality ingredients such as mineral oil – which should not be confused with mineral makeup. Mineral oil is a byproduct of petroleum.

One tip we love is to use 100% mineral makeup to help avoid acne. Mineral powder makeup can make any woman feel like an Earth goddess. If it’s truly pure, then it’s made only from actual minerals and will not irritate your skin. It smooths the appearance and feel of skin instantly. It covers redness and makes skin look naturally pretty. Meanwhile, zinc and other components rebuild the skin and naturally shield it from the sun. The minerals actually help improve skin’s overall quality.

For the best results, apply mineral powder makeup to exfoliated and hydrated skin. Otherwise you might get dry patches. When you get it right, you’ll be able to “fix your face” with mineral powder makeup in about two minutes. Your new favorite beauty product, guaranteed!

Relax your muscles. Take yoga seriously or at least stretch in your own way every morning and evening. Stretching your muscles promotes healthy circulation, which promotes healthy skin. Taking at least ten minutes to stretch every day can also help relieve mental tension. There’s no doubt that mental stress is manifested as acne!

Keep the phone off your face. Even the best phone call can hurt your complexion. When you hold the phone against your face, you can’t help but rub your skin and introduce bacteria. The close quarters also create a miniature climate of condensation that doesn’t work well for skin. Besides all that, phones actually raise the temperature of your skin with their radiation. It’s a perfect, horrible acne storm. Use your speaker button or find another solution.

Reduce stress in your life. Be honest with yourself. Are you trying to be a superman or superwoman? Are you taking on too many tasks for one person to reasonably accomplish? Or maybe you’re letting a not-so-nice person bring stress into your life? Identify the triggers for unhealthy forms of stress. Then take actions to disarm them! A clear mind leads to clear skin.

Follow a skincare routine. Remember, “routine” means regular! Many people make the mistake of only focusing on skin when it’s acting up.

Always finish with a moisturizer. Moisture makes a huge difference for anti-aging and if you choose the right moisturizer, it will fight acne instead of promoting it.

What are your favorite skincare tips that are 100% safe? We’d love to see your comments!

]]>http://blog.beauty-tips.net/seven-safe-simple-steps-for-preventing-treating-acne/feed0Skin Care for Post Laser Hair Removalhttp://blog.beauty-tips.net/skin-care-for-post-laser-hair-removal
http://blog.beauty-tips.net/skin-care-for-post-laser-hair-removal#respondMon, 20 Aug 2012 23:04:53 +0000http://blog.beauty-tips.net/?p=781Continue reading →]]>People grow increasingly tired of the tediousness involved with facial and body hair upkeep, turning to cosmetic technologies like laser hair removal to free up their grooming routines. While effective, it can still be difficult to eradicate hair from an area forever; hair that continues to grow back will do so much slower and finer than before. Aside from the occasional side effects of swelling and increased sensitivity to the treated areas, preventing further irritation is the key to a successful recovery. The following is a list of things to do, and not to do, to make your skin’s healing process as painless as possible.

Hands Off – Don’t touch, rub, scratch or pick at the skin of treated areas. If a scab forms it must be left to heal and fall off of its own accord. When getting out of the shower, always pat the skin dry with soft terrycloth or microfiber towels.

Be Sun Shy – Avoid exposure to the sun’s UV rays for about four weeks both before and after laser hair removal treatments. Having a tan during or after treatment will increase the risk of hyper pigmentation and future sunburn. If heading outside, use a broad spectrum SPF of at least 30 or higher and also avoid using tanning beds at all costs.

No Sweat – Steer clear of vigorous or strenuous exercise for two to three days after treatment, as sweating can cause irritation of the hair follicles.

Well Gel – Applying a cool Aloe Vera gel on treated area will help to soothe irritation, ease any burning sensations and keep skin redness to a minimum. Tip: Keep Aloe Vera gel in the refrigerator to make it extra cooling against burned or laser-treated skin.

Hide From Harshness – Don’t use any harsh chemicals like bleach or perfumed products like aromatherapy oils on skin for at least 24 to 48 hours. Also, stay out chlorinated swimming pools for 48 to 72 hours post treatment.

Don’t Be Irritating – Avoid waxing, plucking or threading hair removal methods on treated areas for at least 48 hours afterward. Shaving, however, is still allowed between treatments.

Can’t Take the Heat – Stay out of hot bath, shower, saunas and steam rooms for 24 to 48 hours to give pores a chance to rest and recuperate. Stay away from heat sources for over 72 hours is you have sensitive skin.

Not So Rough – Don’t exfoliate treated skin, use chemical peels or get a microdermabrasion for a minimum of 10 days. Ideally, it’s best to wait until all hair removal treatments are finished before resuming these activities.

Dare to Bare – Makeup shouldn’t be used on treated skin for up to 24 hours, switching to gentle mineral makeup or brands designed for sensitive skin afterwards.

About the author: This article was written by Monica Dwyer on behalf of Urbana. Monica is an experienced beauty therapist with over 5 years experience in hair removal and waxing.

]]>http://blog.beauty-tips.net/skin-care-for-post-laser-hair-removal/feed0Style Tips: Get the Celebrity Lookhttp://blog.beauty-tips.net/style-tips-get-the-celebrity-look
http://blog.beauty-tips.net/style-tips-get-the-celebrity-look#respondFri, 10 Aug 2012 04:19:59 +0000http://blog.beauty-tips.net/?p=759Continue reading →]]>With so many celebrities to watch and follow it can be hard to find a style that suits you. Whether it’s a hair do or an outfit that catches your eye, if you use a celebrity as a style icon make sure to add a twist to make the look your own. Here are two-drop dead gorgeous celebs and a quick guide on how to get their look.

Kristen Stewart

This 22-year-old American actress is most famous for her role as Bella Swan in The Twilight Saga. Her look is laid-back rock chick, wearing jeans and a T-shirt to interviews. However, Kristen scrubs up well and has been seen in elegant dresses at many red carpet events.

Hair

Get her look by keeping your hair clean but relaxed looking, with a natural wave running though it if you can. Add a few drops of smoothing serum to keep your locks shiny.

For an evening look twist your hair up into a messy up-do. Kristen has been seen wearing sleeveless tops and dresses with her hair pulled back from her face. Let a few sections fall down softly around the face for an effortless evening style.

Make up

Kristen’s make up is natural and it almost looks as if she isn’t wearing any. This is the secret to her laid back, boyish look.

If you are using a celebrity for style tips before a first date, be sure to keep natural beauty in mind. Whether you just met someone on jazzedfreedating.co.uk or through friends, you don’t want to scare them off by overdoing your make up on the first date. Take a leaf out of Kristen’s book and remember that less is more.

To get her make up look, use a natural base cover that blends well to your skin tone, black eyeliner and a light covering of mascara gives the rock chick aspect to her style, keep the lips nude for daytime but vamp it up at night with a smack of red lipstick.

Anne Hathaway

Anne Hathaway is an American actress famous for her roles in films such as ‘One Day’ and ‘The Devil Wears Prada’. At 29 years old she has starred in over twenty films and is a natural at red carpet glitz and glamour. Hathaway has a classic look – or at least had a classic look before cropping her hair short. Here’s how to get the pre-cropped look:

Hair

Hathaway’s locks are often tousled to give a wavy, natural look. To achieve this you can wrap your hair up in small sections over night for a natural wave by morning. Finish with hairspray to hold the look.

Make up

Classic make up is Hathaway’s style and she is often seen with alabaster skin and smoky eyes. Use a good foundation and a light swish of blusher across the cheekbones to suit your skin tone.

For smoky eyes use lots of well blended black eye shadow. Add eyeliner above and below the lid and lashings of mascara to finish it off.

]]>http://blog.beauty-tips.net/style-tips-get-the-celebrity-look/feed0Benzoyl Peroxide: Uses & Cautionshttp://blog.beauty-tips.net/benzoyl-peroxide-uses-cautions
http://blog.beauty-tips.net/benzoyl-peroxide-uses-cautions#respondMon, 16 Jul 2012 21:03:45 +0000http://blog.beauty-tips.net/?p=755Continue reading →]]>Benzoyl peroxide is used in a number of household products that clean and whiten. It’s also considered a medication and is used for treating skin issues. Benzoyl peroxide can be found in pharmacies or in the medication section of your supermarket. In some cases, your doctor will prescribe a more potent amount of benzoyl peroxide that can’t be bought over the counter.

Now you may have heard of benzoyl peroxide while searching for acne remedies. That’s because it’s widely used for treating mild to moderate cases of acne on both the face and body, and is a common ingredient in face cleansers, scrubs and body washes. Because of this, benzoyl peroxide often gets misconstrued as an acne cure-all because it’s one of the most powerful treatments used for preventing pimples.

The key word is “prevent” since it does not erase acne from one’s face. This type of peroxide works because it’s able to break down and destroy bacteria that causes acne. But benzoyl peroxide doesn’t have anti-inflammatory properties, which are important for clearing up any inflamed pimples you currently have. However, with proper usage it can still be a helpful tool to keep handy to prevent pimples from forming.

Uses for Benzoyl Peroxide

As we mentioned before, Benzoyl peroxide is used to prevent mild to moderate acne by lowering the amount of bacteria that causes pimples. Unfortunately, skin that’s affected becomes dry and will peel; however, this minor problem will heal in time. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe different benzoyl products that can’t be purchased over the counter because it’s essentially a medicine. Depending on your personal needs, your doctor may suggest a prescription or an over-the-counter variety that may be of lower potency.

How to use Benzoyl Peroxide for Acne

Acne can pop up all over the body, including your upper arms, shoulders, chest, face and back, which keeps a lot of people from wearing tank tops or strapless dresses. To clear up areas affected by zits with benzoyl peroxide, first wash your skin with a face cleanser. The next step involves patting your face dry with a clean towel; it’s crucial to use a clean towel so as not to add any more bacteria onto your face. Patting your skin instead of rubbing it with the dry, clean towel reduces irritation that can be caused by friction.

Topical Products with Benzoyl Peroxide

Use a benzoyl peroxide cream or gel to apply on the areas of your body that are affected by acne before bed (this includes your face). Letting the product dry on your skin is important so that the bacteria is sure to be taken care of. Gently wash the benzoyl off in the morning using a gentle cleanser – unless the product’s label specifies otherwise.

Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Improvement in acne is usually seen after three weeks of use, and you’ll get maximum benefits after 8-12 weeks of use. Apply this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day. If your condition persists or worsens, make sure to contact a doctor as quickly as possible.

If you choose a benzoyl peroxide medicated pad or sponge, you’ll still want to cleanse the surface dirt off of your skin before using the benzoyl product; use the pad or sponge as directed on the label. Depending on the product, you will need to rinse and then pat dry before continuing with your normal routine.

Benzoyl Peroxide Cleansers

If using creams or gels seems like too long of a process for you, try using a benzoyl peroxide cleanser. Wet the skin where you tend to develop pimples, and then continue using a light touch to rub the cleanser onto your skin (should be a lather) for about 15 seconds; rinse the skin well before patting dry. You can use benzoyl peroxide cleansers such as liquid, pad, or bar twice a day if necessary. Assuming your skin becomes too dry, rinse the product off sooner or use the cleanser less often. If your skin is experiencing a harsh side effect, talk with your doctor about finding a solution.

Shaving Cream and Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide is even found in some shaving creams. The process of using this form of the medication is no different than using a shave cream that does not contain benzoyl peroxide. Wet the area to be shaved before applying small amounts of the product onto your skin. Rinse your skin with warm water and finish by patting the skin dry. Use a moisturizer to re-hydrate your skin and keep oil glands from becoming unbalanced.

Precautions for Benzoyl Peroxide

As with any form of medication or product, there are a few precautions that need to be taken before or during your use of benzoyl peroxide. Keep this product out of your eyes, mouth, or nose since it can cause irritation. Also, don’t apply benzoyl peroxide to broken skin; if any of the aforementioned scenarios happen, flush the area with water immediately.

When using benzoyl peroxide, it’s best to take precautions for your floor, furniture, and hair as it can leave bleach stains if left unattended. One more thing we’d like to mention is that you should wear an old shirt or a towel around your shoulders to avoid ruining clothing.

]]>http://blog.beauty-tips.net/benzoyl-peroxide-uses-cautions/feed0Nail Care Tools – Must-Have Tools for at-Home Manicure & Pedicurehttp://blog.beauty-tips.net/nail-care-tools-must-have-tools-for-at-home-manicure-pedicure
http://blog.beauty-tips.net/nail-care-tools-must-have-tools-for-at-home-manicure-pedicure#respondThu, 21 Jun 2012 21:41:07 +0000http://blog.beauty-tips.net/?p=751Continue reading →]]>Fingernails and toenails have a major impact on first impressions and personal hygiene, which is why nail salons are so successful. Salons are great if you can afford to pay someone to do the maintenance on your nails; however, the cost can really add up if you pay for both a manicure and pedicure.

On the other hand, giving yourself a manicure-pedicure at home costs much less and doesn’t require a car ride to the salon either! You don’t even need to get dressed for a homemade mani-pedi, which is another reason to be frugal and do your own nails. Assuming you’re interested in at-home nail treatments, here are the tools you should have in order to make your nails look their best.

Must-have Nail Tools for At-Home Manis and Pedis

You’ll be able to find the following items in the beauty section of your local department store, beauty store, drugstore, or by searching online. Most of the tools won’t cost more than a few dollars and will last a while – depending on how often you choose to do maintenance on your nails. So with that being said, here are the top nail care tools you should have and how to use them to give yourself an excellent manicure & pedicure:

Nail Clippers

It is very important to have a pair of nail clippers tucked away somewhere in your kit because they can remove hangnails or ingrown nails. But a lot of men and women who own nail clippers don’t use them properly and end up with jagged nails or injuries because they clip to close to the skin. To avoid these types of problems, pay close attention to the next section!

How to use Nail Clippers
The main mistake here involves using nail clippers to shape one’s nails. Clippers shouldn’t be used to shape finger or toenails because this tool leaves them with inconsistent shapes, harsh edges and cracks, and is oftentimes the cause of ingrown toenails.

To properly use nail clippers, start by cutting straight across the nail; after this, you can finish by using a filing tool such as an emery board to shape the nail and smooth out rough edges. Clean your clippers each time you use them to stop bacteria from growing on the blades. It’s especially important to keep them clean if you’ll be sharing clippers with others!

Before we move on, some people may not consider clippers to be an essential item because they prefer longer nails. However, it’s important to understand that short nails are healthier for both your toes and fingers. Longer nails, on the other hand, leave you vulnerable to breakage and peeling – on top of other issues that weaken your nail beds.

Emery Boards and Nail Files

Emery boards are constructed of thin pieces of cardboard with emery paper on each side. The emery papers feature various textures that make them rough enough to file and shape finger/toenails, yet flexible enough to maneuver around hard-to-reach edges. Emery boards are disposable – unlike other nail files like metal or glass files. Disposable emery boards are a great idea if you enjoy doing other people’s nails since they’re a more sanitary alternative to other nail files.

Glass nail files are becoming more popular because they have a smoother surface and won’t cause small fractures, peeling, splintering, or chipping in your nail like other files do. It’s also worth mentioning that glass nail files last a lot longer than other files due to the permanently-etched process. Glass files can be difficult to track down and shouldn’t be shared between friends because they can hold gross bacteria and germs. It’s also important to handle glass nail files with care since they can break if dropped on the floor.

Using your Nail File

After you’ve used the nail clippers and have roughly shaped your nails to either a square or round tip, you should use a nail file or emery board to smooth out any harsh edges that the clippers sometimes leave behind.

Cuticle Nipper

Cuticle nippers are perfect for clearing away any hangnails that seem to pop up at the least convenient of times. Cuticle nippers (a.k.a. trimmers) are often overused, so be cautious not to overdo it while cleaning up your cuticles.

Caring for Cuticles with Cuticle Nippers
The first step in trimming your cuticles involves soaking your hands in warm water to soften both the cuticle and nail. Using a cuticle remover after you’ve soaked your hands for a few minutes instead of oil or cream will give better results because it’s able to break down the dead skin cells – unlike lotions and oils.

Next, you’ll use your cuticle pusher and a 4-way buffer, which will both be explained in more detail later. Once you’ve soaked, used cuticle remover according to directions printed on the label, used a cuticle pusher, and a buffer, it’s finally time to use your cuticle nipper to get rid of hangnails.

Nippers should only be used for hangnails, and the blades don’t need to be any bigger than a ¼ inch so that you only remove what needs to be taken off; in short, this size of blade keeps you from over-trimming.

Once you’ve done all of the above and your nails look clean and tidy, it’s important to keep up with maintaining them so that they’re always in good shape. The secret to fabulous fingers is moisturizing and exfoliating to remove dead skin and keep the skin hydrated!

Cuticle Pusher

A round cuticle pusher is a must-have nail care tool because it gives you an instant manicured look without the instant manicure price. With a round cuticle pusher – rather than a square pusher – you’re able to contour the cuticle to the nail swiftly while removing a minimal amount of extra skin; this causes much less damage and scraping altogether.

To use the round cuticle pusher, you will gently rub the nail bed with light pressure to reveal more attractive nails instantly. Don’t be afraid to use this tool on your toes as well!

Buffer Block

Buffer blocks typically have four sides to give you the optimal use out of one product. One of the sides files, another buffs, and one polishes your nails – leaving them smooth and shiny. This tool may sound expensive because of its multiple uses, but it is relatively affordable at the local beauty store. When using this tool, it’s important to always move the block in the same direction no matter what side you’re using. You can use the buffer block to remove rough skin around your cuticle by using the coarse side of the nail buffer block with light pressure.

Toothpicks or Orange Sticks

If you enjoy creating designs on your nails, you’ll want to keep toothpicks or orange sticks handy because they make it a lot easier. They also make applying glitter, decals, or other nail art fashions so much easier. You can also use these tools to remove the nail polish off of the skin around your nail.

Having the proper nail care tools will allow you to have gorgeous and clean-looking hands and feet without the bother of salons or spending lots of money!

]]>http://blog.beauty-tips.net/nail-care-tools-must-have-tools-for-at-home-manicure-pedicure/feed0Special Event Checklisthttp://blog.beauty-tips.net/special-event-checklist
http://blog.beauty-tips.net/special-event-checklist#respondMon, 28 May 2012 21:40:11 +0000http://blog.beauty-tips.net/?p=747Continue reading →]]>For some people, there are plenty of special events that happen throughout the year such as weddings, first dates, birthday parties and vacations. Some of these special events are planned months in advance, while others are unexpected and last minute. As for the latter, these events can cause lots of stress – even in regards to the littlest of details. So in order to help with these stressful situations, here is a list of things that’ll ease the anxiety of getting ready for special events.

Pamper your Eyes

The area around your eyes can be revealing at any age since it shows how little sleep you’ve had, and how much alcohol you’ve binged on the night before. Even if your eyes are seemingly healthy, it’s okay to give them a little pick-me-up before a special event. To begin pampering your eyes, brew some green teabags and allow them to cool before placing the bags over your closed eyes for 10 minutes; additionally, make sure to you lay on your back. Cucumbers are also a great way to perk up the skin around your eyes.

While you’re taking care of the eye area, don’t forget to touch up your eyebrows if they’re looking a bit rough. Going to a salon a few days before your special event and getting eyebrows professionally shaped will help keep them clean and tidy for the big day. Don’t wax them the same day as the special event since your skin could be irritated and red for several hours afterward.

Hair Care

Your hair is another one of those things that can cause anxiety because there are about a million different styles you could do with it such as braids, soft waves, headbands, pony tails…..the list goes on!

Other than how you plan to style your hair, the health of your strands is of top importance. To ensure that your hair is manageable, remember to get regular trims to remove split ends. The night before your event, use a hair mask of any kind to allow the locks to absorb moisture and tame fly-aways. Coconut oil is great for this; apply it to both your scalp and hair for an all-over treatment. To pump up your hair a little, use volumizing shampoo and conditioner because this gives your hair more bounce while making it appear fuller.

Important Nail Care

If you’re not able to get a manicure or pedicure, it’s up to you to make sure your nails are clean, filed and painted. Your hands make a big impression, so keeping them clean and moisturized is also important.

Trim your nails and file them so that they’re evenly shaped. Push your cuticles up or trim them with a cuticle trimmer. And don’t forget to wash and dry your hands well. Paint them a nude or pale pink color for a classic style, or give yourself a French manicure. Apply a top coat and follow up by massaging oil or hydrating cream on your hands – focusing on your cuticle area.

Whiten Teeth

Special events are often flooded with cameras and picture-happy friends/family, so you’ll want to look your best in the pictures. Having a bright, white smile can boost your confidence and will always make a good impression. Use teeth whitening strips before your event so that you can be confident.

Get Plenty of Rest

It’s never a good idea to skimp on sleep, especially if you’re going to an event the next day! Sleep is important and can make or break your skin’s complexion, your mood and overall confidence. Getting enough sleep will allow your body to rejuvenate cells, and reduce puffiness, redness, pimples, and dark circles around your eyes. Your concentration will be better, you’ll have more energy, and you won’t feel sluggish halfway through the day when you’re getting 7-9 hours of sleep each night.

Unfortunately, getting enough shuteye is easier said than done in some cases. So if you’re too excited to sleep or just out of time, splash cold water on your face in the morning to tighten pores, and give yourself a face massage using ice cubes; just avoid putting the ice directly on the eye area since this can cause irritation or blood vessels to burst, which leads to skin discoloration around your eyes. It also helps to do some light exercises like jumping jacks, pushups, or yoga when you roll out of bed.

Caffeine is also a troublemaker when it comes to sleep, which is why you’d do well to avoid drinking sodas, coffee, or tea before bedtime.

Drink Water

Water is underrated and just as important as sleep since it keeps your skin plump, and helps to clean up your complexion. Unfortunately, drinking water can become monotonous, but by adding a splash of cranberry or pomegranate juice, the water’s flavor and antioxidant powers can be boosted, thus giving your skin another pick-me-up. White or green teas are also refreshing drinks to try when you’re out and about.

While we’re discussing what you should be drinking, let’s talk about what not to gulp down. Alcohol is packed with unnecessary calories and causes a drying effect on your skin, making it an all-around bad idea. And as we mentioned before, avoid drinks that are packed with caffeine too.

Don’t Overdose on Carbs

While there are healthy carbohydrates, there are also unhealthy carbs to avoid altogether such as bread and pasta. These carbs can cause you to bloat, which is an instant confidence deflator!

So instead of eating whole grain or white bread toast for breakfast, try brown rice bread instead with a cup of fruit and egg whites. And for dinner, prepare brown rice noodles for your pasta rather than the whole grain variety, paired with a lean protein like salmon, turkey or chicken. It’s always a great idea to eat raw fruits and vegetables with every meal to increase energy and aid digestion. Also, eating less sugar and salt helps you feel your best. Knowing that small changes like this really impact how your body feels, it’s important to start the changes sooner, rather than later.

Facial at Home/Salon

About a week before the event, either go to a salon for a facial or give yourself one at home. Facials encourage blood circulation, which gives your complexion a healthy glow. If you’ve never had a facial before, it’s important to give yourself a few days to allow your skin to calm down following the treatment. If you’re doing the facial at home, use products that you’ve tried before or those designed for sensitive skin, and try the products a month or so before the event.

Exfoliate your Face and Body

Exfoliating the skin on your face and body encourages the regeneration of new skin cells, while getting dead skin off of the surface to reveal fresh-looking skin underneath. Some people like to exfoliate daily or every other day depending on personal preference.

Use a Hydrating Daily Moisturizer

Moisturizers are important because they hydrate your skin to keep it supple, and help retain the skin’s elasticity as well. Moisturizers free of harmful ingredients such as parabens and alcohol are best, so read the labels before using a product.

Tips on how to prepare for Special Events

It can be overwhelming when looking at a list like this and trying to find time to make all of the appointments, so here are a few ways to take the stress level down a notch. As soon as you get word of a special event, mark it on your calendar. Refer back to the list and mark your calendar for the expected time of waxing, facials, manicures and pedicures. This way, you’re not rushing around a week before the event trying to make time to get all of the above done.